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- 27 Sep 2025
- 1
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Risk Factors Among Female University Students in Syria
Objective: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among adults in the
Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) is high, ranging from 25.7% to 35.9%. This
study aimed to investigate the prevalence of MetS and its individual risk factors
among female university students in Syria, a demographic that remains
understudied despite being at potential risk.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 183 female students at the
Arab International University (AIU). Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed
according to International Diabetes Federation (IDF) guidelines. Assessments
included waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, and lipid
profiles, including small dense low-density lipoprotein (sdLDL).
Results: The overall prevalence of MetS was 5.5%. The most prevalent individual
risk factors were central obesity (39.3%), low high-density lipoprotein (HDL)
cholesterol (30.8%), and elevated blood pressure (9.0%).
Conclusion: A significant proportion of female students at AIU exhibited risk
factors for MetS, primarily central obesity, low HDL cholesterol, and hypertension.
These findings highlight the need for early screening and targeted educational
interventions promoting lifestyle modifications to prevent MetS and its associated
long-term health complications in this young adult population
Authors: Mouhidien Jouma
